Strong calls for the country to switch to using its own local ships and crews – to ensure a reliable service. 

That's the message from the New Zealand Merchant Service Guild representing maritime workers. 

Covid-19 has wreaked havoc on the global supply chains – sparking shipping delays.  

Merchant Service Guild vice president Iain MacLeod told Tim Dower being stuck down the bottom of the world, New Zealand should be looking after its own infrastructure. 

“We need to level the playing field so New Zealand operators can compete against these big boys, and trade successfully to look after New Zealand’s market.” 

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